Nottingham youngsters get close to nature at Stonebridge City Farm

FROM wormeries and bird feeders to jewellery making and zumba, kids in Nottingham have been making the most of half-term before heading back to school on Monday.

Various events have taken place across the city at libraries, leisure centres and parks.

Among the most popular activities were those at Stonebridge City Farm, which invited schoolchildren to get back to nature with activities throughout the week.

The timetable offered youngsters the chance make their own bird feeders, bug houses and wormeries, as well as giving traditional arts and crafts sessions a new twist by using materials such as leaves.

Julie Taylor, 33, had travelled to the farm with her three children – Chloe, 13, Jackson, six, and Alex, four – from Stapleford.

"We come down here quite often in the holidays," she said. "It's a free day out that the kids really enjoy. Having three children means things can get quite expensive but they really like it here and it's something they look forward to because there's always different things going on."

As well as taking part in the wormery-making yesterday, Chloe was feeding the animals. She is a particular fan of the farm's guinea pigs and has three of her own, which she bought from the farm.

"I really like the animals," she said. "This morning I've been doing the wormery-making which I've not done before and I found two centipedes and two worms in my soil – it was really interesting.

"I've also been feeding the animals and trying to make friends with the guinea pigs."

Other activities available at the farm included making plant pots and bird origami.

Usual farm attractions, including feeding the animals, and a play area were also available.

Sarah Halpin, 34, was there with her children James, five and Katie, three. "We always come here," she said. "The children really enjoy it. I think just being out in the fresh air and the park is great. They also love the animals."

Other activities in the city included half-term fun at Aspley, Sneinton and Hyson Green libraries.

Wollaton Hall was a hit with older kids on Friday Fright Night. Groups were taken through darkened passages as guides told chilling tales about the hall and grounds.